Comment on Australia’s first domestic violence register

Have your say on Australia’s first pilot scheme to protect people who may be at risk of domestic violence.

Suspect targeting of domestic violence perpetrators will be rolled out across NSW to help reduce reoffending.

The NSW Government is calling for comments on its trial Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS), which enables people to find out if their partner has a history of committing domestic violence. The DVDS is similar to a successful initiative in the UK called Clare’s Law.

The scheme will allow people to make informed decisions about their relationship and safety, to seek assistance or undertake safety planning.

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Pru Goward said domestic violence was rarely a one-off incident and often abusers repeated their behaviour with new partners.

"The disclosure scheme is about holding offenders to account and preventing people being kept in the dark about potential dangers in their relationships," Ms Upton said.

“Information is power and the DVDS will empower people. It gives people who may be at risk the ability to make an informed decision about their relationships and get help if they need it.”

Commenting on the scheme has closed. Sixty five submissions from individuals and organisations were received. The NSW Government will now consider the submissions and finalise the scheme.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, ring the Domestic Violence Line for help on 1800 656 463 (TTY 1800 671 442).